Bob Monks is concerned that the influx of eastern European workers is downsizing wage increases for road transport workers. He notes the number of companies that have "asked for low pay increases or a pay freeze" means there is no shortage of recruitment, and positions are being filled by eastern Europeans. "There is no doubt about it," Monks tells Motor Transport. Many of the eastern European workers will work for much lower rates than UK counterparts.
The United Road Transport Union general
secretary says he recognises hauliers have to look elsewhere at a time of driver shortage, but adds that it is "a short term fix" that "steadies any wage increase". The general pay picture for the transport industry is "poor," says Monks, with increases at "inflation, plus 0.1% or 0.2%"
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